Roofing projects in warm temperatures are ideal. However, emergencies might crop up at any time of the year. Whether it is winter or summer, or fall, you cannot calculate certain situations. Undertake a roofing project in the winter months is a risky job, undoubtedly. However, it is possible only if you have a reputable professional agency by your side.
These professionals understand how to undertake the project with safety precautions and ensure desirable results by cutting down the risks. If you are speculating whether it is possible to go for new roofing in the cold weather, the straightforward answer is yes. If you follow foresight, planning, and safety precautions, you can ensure a successful roof installation process. At times, it’s better to go for a new roof in the cold weather. A proper winter roofing project will benefit from renewed awareness and techniques.
Key Points to Note: We have compiled a list of essential points and indicators for you to consider before your roofing project in the winter. Check it out well, and then make your decision:
Table of Contents
Investigate the Roof’s Integrity
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Make an inspection of your roofing system thoroughly. On the exterior side, look for blisters, cracks, and loose mortar. Don’t forget to check the flashings properly. Also, assess the condition of the support structure.
Investigate ice damming by climbing up your roof from both sides wearing a harness for safety measures. By this, you will be able to inspect whether there is any sheathing damage or leaks behind the shingles. Inspect the plywood thoroughly for buckling, rot, mold, and moisture spots.
If you find any of these issues (sheathing damage/seams), it is better to hire professional roofers to reroof your home in the winter season. You can also consider taking expert advice before proceeding with your project.
According to experts, you can go for roof replacement with certain conditions. These are: If your existing roof is over 10 years old with an average shape, it’s better to replace it in the winter.
If your home lacks proper insulation with a poorly insulated attic, it will be more costly if you have to turn around to fix the project later.
If the existing roofing system is not in good condition and leaks persistently, it’s better to replace it before winter. For this, you require a comprehensive guide that will direct you in the process throughout.
Potential Issues with Roofing Material
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As a responsible homeowner, you must know about different roofing materials. Whether you undertake the roofing project in the winter season or the summer months, appropriate installation is a necessity. Remember that the season will not damage the project if you are cautious of the possible hazards. Thus, you must be aware of the following points:
Asphalt Roof:
Asphalt shingles are a common roofing material used all across the globe. It is durable and cost-effective. For replacing and installing asphalt shingles, you require an ideal temperature. Warm temperature is suitable for installing this material, but you can undertake the project in the winter months. Remember that a temperature below 40 degrees is considered too cold for the project. Since freezing temperatures start to set in winter, asphalt shingles become brittle and break.
Fiberglass Shingle:
Another popular roofing material you will encounter in the market is fiberglass shingles. These roofing materials are an alternative to the earlier category. Roof shakes come from wood, and therefore they do not break even at low temperatures. Hence, you can work with this at the freezing point. However, they can shatter in the winter months, bothering every homeowner.
Tar and Sealants:
When working with shingles, you must be cautious of the sealant strips coming with them. Shingle manufacturers may provide you with a thermally activated shingle that takes care of pressure and heat. Once the winter weather sets in, you may still work with the shingles, but that requires professional handling.
Thus, contacting Benchmark Roofing & Restoration is advisable because they have a crew of highly trained professionals who have experience working with sealed shingles, roofing cement, tar, and others. They have a simple principle of giving efficient services in no time.
Is Your House in the Path of Snow and Ice Buildup?
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Snow and ice are known to cause damage if they accumulate on roofs. The threat is even greater when the building is located in high altitudes or places where snowfall is common. If you live in such a place and your roof is not equipped to deal with snow and ice, you must do away with the old roof and install a new one. The good news is that there are numerous contractors who specialize in such projects.
But undertaking any project in the winter months is not devoid of risk. Only when you contact a professional who has a good track record and experience of emergency roofing activities, he can you assure your safety and security. Trained professionals can undertake the task without damaging the structure.